Ukrainian exports in the first quarter of this year may decrease by $1 billion due to shelling of ports, which affects logistics and the transportation of goods. This estimate was announced by the Deputy Chairman of the National Bank of Ukraine, Volodymyr Lepushynskyi, during a briefing on January 29.
This is reported by Finway
Export Complications Due to Attacks on Port Infrastructure
According to Lepushynskyi, the situation with the transportation of Ukrainian export cargo significantly worsened in the fourth quarter of 2025 due to constant attacks on ports and industrial enterprises. This forced exporters to seek alternative routes, including the use of rail transport.
“Accordingly, part of the exports was redirected through other routes, particularly by rail. However, overall, we received an export figure approximately $150 million lower than expected in the fourth quarter,” noted the Deputy Chairman of the NBU.
Prospects for Export Recovery and Risks
Lepushynskyi noted that in the first quarter of 2026, risks for Ukrainian exporters remain high. At the same time, the updated macroeconomic forecast of the National Bank includes a gradual recovery of transportation through sea ports. This will allow for an increase in export volumes, particularly of agricultural products, metallurgy, and iron ore.
Returning to stable operation of the port infrastructure is critically important for Ukraine’s economy, as sea routes remain the main channel for exporting large cargoes.